GUIDANCE FOR SUPERVISORS OF STUDENTS - DO'S AND DON'TS

DO speak with your student before the first day of work. Learn more about their interests and abilities.

DO have a desk ready for the student on the first day of work. Have a working phone, personal computer, and e-mail address ready for use. Remind the student about the rules for using phones and other equipment for official business only.

DO have a few well-defined assignments ready to give the student on the first day of work.

DO explain to the student how these assignments and the work of your organization relate to the Department of Agriculture's (USDA) strategic goals and mission.

DO arrange for the student to have an experienced staff member as a mentor or coach. Be clear about your interest in hearing about progress or problems related to work assignments.

DO include the student in meetings. Bring the student along when you are participating in interesting meetings.

DO treat the students as though you expect them to tell others about their work experiences. Will they have enthusiastic things to say about working for USDA?

DO make an assessment about whether the student would be an asset to your organization. If the student will be enrolled in school for another year, speak to your human resources office about converting the student to a cooperative education appointment.

DO give students materials that they can use to explain the advantages of working for USDA to their teachers, fellow students, and friends.

DON'T ignore a student.

DON'T continually give a college student work that is well below their capability, for example, filing, copying.

DON'T give a student reason to relate negative experiences about their assignment in USDA.

DON'T assume that students are happy if they are not complaining.